Supermarket chain Sainsbury's has announced proposals to streamline its operations, resulting in the loss of approximately 1,500 jobs.  

This move is part of the retailer's "save and invest to win" programme, designed to adapt the business to its Next Level Sainsbury's strategy launched in February 2024.

The proposed changes include simplifying the store support centre structure, creating more efficient contact centre operations, consolidating the general merchandise fulfilment network and improving bakery offerings in some stores.  

The savings from these measures will be re-invested into the business to enhance value, quality and service. 

Sainsbury’s seeks to simplify team structures, particularly in retail, transformation, HR, supply chain and logistics.  

The company is also considering streamlining senior leadership. 

It proposes to transfer all careline services to an existing third-party partner, affecting colleagues at its Widnes contact centre.  

The majority of these colleagues will have the opportunity to move to the service partner, which provides a range of career options. 

For general merchandise distribution, Sainsbury's is discussing changes in stock movement and locations to reduce the need for local fulfilment centres. 

The retailer will offer redeployment opportunities to affected employees. 

Despite the reductions, Sainsbury's plans to open more sites and create more jobs nationally. 

Sainsbury's chief executive Simon Roberts stated: “Our Next Level Sainsbury’s strategy is about giving customers more of what they come to Sainsbury’s for – outstanding value, unbeatable quality food and great service.  

“One of the ways we’re going to deliver on this promise is through our save and invest to win programme. As we move into the next phase of our strategy, we are making some difficult but necessary decisions.  

“The proposals we’ve been talking to teams about today are important to ensure we’re better set up to focus on the things that create a real impact for our customers, delivering good food for all of us and building a platform for growth. I know today’s news is unsettling for affected colleagues and we will do everything we can to support them.”